Devon Veterans League

Dog & Duck(Torquay) 3

Tavistock Vets 1

THE Vets tasted defeat for the first time on Sunday after a competitive game against last year's league winners.

The match started at a quick pace with the Torquay side having territorial advantage without being able to penetrate the defence in which Dave Rowe was outstanding ably assisted by Phil Towl who was dominant in the air.

The deadlock was broken on the quarter hour when a well flighted corner was not cleared at the far post allowing Dog and Duck to take the lead with a headed goal.

Rob Staniland, working hard in midfield, almost levelled with a fierce drive which hit the upright and deflected for a goal kick. The Vets found it difficult to create many clear cut chances as the Torquay side were well organised in defence.

The second period began badly for the Vets when Andy Fitzsimmons was beaten from 25 yards within two minutes. The dose was repeated a minute later when a vicious bounce led to another long-range effort eluding the Vets keeper.

A tactical change by manager Colin Ewings, bringing off leading scorer Mick Sloman and bringing himself on, seemed to give the Vets more attacking options and they came back into the game with a well taken headed goal from Steve Webb.

The game was a good advert for veterans football between evenly matched ex-Western League players. The Torquay side deserved their win but it has to be said the Vets can play better than they showed on this occasion.